Scientists tackle Lake Erie algae: Toxic bloom is one of many environmental problems facing lake

Algae like this has become more common on Lake Erie as farm,
lawn and other phosphorus runoffs end up in the lake.
(Daniel Mears / The Detroit News)

Scientists gathered this week to discuss the health of the Great Lakes said Monday that recent environmental threats plaguing Lake Erie — from low water levels to the possibility of Asian carp — are diverting attention from a larger, looming threat: toxic algae blooms.

So far this year, water levels have been well below their historical averages. Scientists recently discovered DNA evidence of Asian carp in the lake for the first time. And a significant fish kill along the shore near Cleveland in July was repeated last week on the Canadian side of the lake near Chatham.

But, as recently as last year, scientists tracked a massive toxic algae bloom that, from space, appeared to cover almost the entire western third of the lake. The dangerous blooms have become more common.

Detroit News - www.detroitnews

11 Sep 2012

J Lynch

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